At MBK Senior Living communities, residents and staff embrace Yoi Shigoto. Simply translated in Japanese, Yoi Shigoto means “the good work,” and it is part of MBK’s commitment to provide on-going charitable service. While the program significantly impacts those being helped, studies have found that volunteerism is incredibly beneficial for those doing the helping, too.

“We embrace Yoi Shigoto as part of our core values at MBK Senior Living,” said Crystal Roberts, Director of Resident Enrichment. “Like dropping a stone in a lake, the effects of Yoi Shigoto ripple out and extend beyond ourselves, to impact our residents, our local community, and ultimately the world.”

According to Roberts, seniors who participate in volunteer programs and charitable giving have a greater sense of purpose and productivity, are typically happy and healthier, and have increased self-confidence.

“It’s a known fact that volunteering provides people with purpose and connectivity, but what’s more, it prevents seniors from feeling isolated or depressed, it helps them to make new friends, and it helps to bridge generations,” said Roberts. “In addition, it promotes greater physical and mental activity, and it counteracts stress and anxiety—all of which are exceptional benefits for anyone, but especially for older adults.”

“At MBK Senior Living, our residents and associates work together to complete community service projects monthly—from working with other seniors in need, to working with shelters, hospitals, police departments, and veteran services,” added Roberts.

Yoi Shigoto good work happens regularly throughout our communities. At MBK’s Welbrook Arlington community, residents and associates have worked together to create “Pick Me Up” (as opposed to “Get Well”) cards for children receiving services at Loma Linda Hospital. Two to three times a year, the community donates up to 200 cards to the hospital to boost the morale of hospitalized kids and their families.

In Utah, residents at The Wellington worked together with the local Baha’i community to make hygiene kits for Utah refugees. In Arizona, our Tuscany at McCormick Ranch community has previously partnered with Justa Center to donate envelopes, stamps, and Phoenix Bus Passes to benefit the area’s homeless seniors. In Washington, our Northgate Plaza community has collected hats, scarves, and coats to donate to area shelters. These are just a few examples of how our residents and associates share the good work.

“It’s not uncommon for us to hear from residents who have participated in Yoi Shigoto activities that they feel happier and more connected to fellow residents, associates, and even the community around them,” said Roberts. “But what truly makes us smile is when a Yoi Shigoto activity has tapped into our residents’ skills and passions, and they tell us they have a renewed sense of purpose as a result of giving.”